My Mom is turning 90 in early July. We have celebrated her milestone birthdays since she turned 80 (so 80 & 85) w/family and the few friends she had left and I'd love to celebrate her at 90 in the same fashion (party w/family, and the very few friends that are left). So looking for advice. I've been reading on websites that they say to keep the location in a familiar place - home or in the facility where she lives. I'm afraid if I bring her home, something will click and she'll remember she lived here (I cared for her in my home from 2013-2020) and won't want to return to the MC facility. I thought of having it outside at a park but that would be so much work on me I'm sure I'd have a cousin and a son's girlfriend willing to help, but still a lot of work. I doubt that the facility will allow us to have a "party" there in these current times so pretty sure that is out of the question.
Looking for advice and possible ideas. Total number of people that would possibly be present would be anywhere from 15-25 people.
Ask them if it is possible also ask if they have restrictions on how many people can be there at a time.
Keep in mind that the party really is for you and the guests not your mom. Yes you will be celebrating her but she will probably not realize what the party is for, she may become upset at the number of people and she may not even want to participate. (I know with my Husband if there were more than 2 or 3 people he was completely disinterested. He would eat the food given to him but he would not engage at all. But everyone is different)
There was an entertainment room in the basement, and we had her party there.
Within current circumstances, I’d lean much closer to 15 people than to 25 for no more than 2 hours.
Simple SIMPLE refreshments, flowers if she likes them, bright colors for table covers and napkins.
In spite of the fact that my LO was in the midst of a pretty rocky adjustment at the time, she did enjoy her birthday that year. I may try something this year, on the patio at her residence. Most people are still wary of travel where we are, but at 93, my LO still recognizes people who are good to her, so you’ve given me hope.
THANK YOU for bring this topic up, and I hope your LO’s party is just perfect for her!
Adding- I’d never consider a party in your home in my situation, for exactly the reason you’ve stated. In or near HER CURRENT HOME is safest.
This was pre-Covid though...
Once fatigued, it would good to be able to relocate quickly to the quiet of her own room, if required.
Home may work well too. Extra communication regarding an end time may be needed for guests & a quite retreat room too?
I used to love outdoor parties, but too hard for our lot now (weather, toilets, appropriate chairs).
See what others can come up with. I hope you all enjoy the day 🎂🎈🤩